Shakib, Rubel included in Asian Games squad

Allrounder Shakib Al Hasan and fast bowler Rubel Hossain have been included in Bangladesh's 15-member men's team for the Asian Games, which will be held in Incheon, South Korea, between September 19 and October 4. The two players have been named as replacements for offspinner Sohag Gazi and fast bowler Al-Amin Hossain, who were reported for suspect actions recently.

According to ICC regulations, both Gazi and Al-Amin are expected to undergo tests to have their actions examined. While Gazi was reported during the ODI series in West Indies, Al-Amin was reported after the first Test in St Vincent.

The selection in the Asian Games squad can be considered an important step for Shakib, who has faced a turbulent time in the past few months. In July, the Bangladesh Cricket Board suspended the allrounder for six months for what it considered "serious misbehaviour" with Bangladesh's new coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, and for his altercation with a spectator during an ODI against India. However, in August, the board reduced his suspension by three-and-a-half months, making him eligible for selection from September 15.

Rubel had picked up an injury during the World T20 and only recently made his return to the national side on the West Indies tour, playing a T20 and the first Test. He was not part of the squad for the three-match ODI series against India in June.

Bangladesh, led by Mashrafe Mortaza, will participate in the Asian Games alongside teams from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan, China, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Malaysia, Maldives and hosts South Korea.